A violet pixelated galactic sky is marvelously portrayed from a spaceship bed and that is only the beginning.

Garrett McNally delivers a moving portrayal as inquisitive Auggie whose vibrant imagination spans the vast cosmos. Born with Treacher Collins Syndrome, Auggie’s world has always been limited to home schooling.  However, when Auggie is about to attend fifth grade, Alison Luff as Auggie’s practical mother Isabel insists he attend public school.  With guarded optimism, Auggie ventures apprehensively on this new journey.

Insightfully directed by Taibi Magar with Katie Spelman’s enchanting choreography and Ryan Cantwell’s uplifting music direction, American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) continues its world premiere of Wonder the Musical recently extended through Sunday, February 15 live and in person at Loeb Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  This family-friendly and engaging production is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes with one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

In 2012, R.J Palachio’s first novel Wonder became a New York Times best seller before it was adapted into a heartwarming 2017 film of the same name starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson and Jacob Tremblay.  It seems only natural that this remarkable story has now been warmly transformed into a compelling musical.

Though Wonder is not based on a true story, Auggie’s story draws from real life experiences of individuals who struggle with this craniofacial condition.  It tackles bullying, prejudice, empathy and kindness, but what sets this intriguing musical apart is how it delves into perspectives.  Auggie may be the central figure in this musical, but a large part of the story focuses on each character’s perspective and the unexpected struggles of those who seem to have it better than Auggie at first glance.  Learning to walk in another’s shoes has never been so important.

Set designer Matt Saunders with lighting designer Bradley King richly articulates this glowing musical’s significant themes symbolically through a multicolored and animated pixilated landscape rhythmically peppering a revolving stage. These pixels can enhance, enliven and moderate the musical’s weightier scenes, but particularly illuminating Auggie’s amazing cosmic universe. Imaginative backpacks, colorful streamers, expressive T-shirts and detailed, fanciful costumes are just a sample of Linda Cho’s exuberant costume design.

Wonder boasts its share of feel good moments featuring a strong cast. The chiming pop-infused score with lyrics and music by A Great Big World with Cody Spencer’s robust sound design keeps the show hopeful and optimistic even in the face of its heavier and poignant moments. Alison Luff as Isabel, Javier Muñoz as Nate, Kaylin Hedges as Via and Garrett McNally share a natural tight-knit chemistry facing the world as Hedges as Via affectionately calls her family ‘our little galaxy.’ There is a quiet earnestness built into this family when they step aside for one another. Hedges brings an affinity to this complex role with quiet yearning as Via through soaring vocals who consistently puts Auggie first in her solo, Around the Sun.  Luff and McNally share a stirring bond in a fiddle-laden and powerful rendition of You are Beautiful. 

Led by Melvin Abston as energetic Mr. Tushman, Beecher Prep School teachers share an idyllic infectious glee, enthusiasm, and occasionally lovable awkwardness as they navigate the curriculum with verve and charm.

Skylar Matthews charismatically shines as excitable and precocious theatre student Charlotte, especially during her engaging solo, You Didn’t Hear it From Me as she waltzes across the stage.   Donovan Louis Bazemore seamlessly navigates conflicted Jack who brings warmth and sincerity to the number, Shoes.  Paravi shows off sharp comedic timing while lightening a heartfelt moment with Hedges.

Nathan Salstone is no ordinary Moon Boy.  From the exciting 3-2-1 Blast Off and throughout the production, Salstone’s mellifluous vocals and reflective demeanor with Auggie brilliantly elevates each scene.

Wonder is an intuitive, imaginative and heartfelt creation that celebrates the value of loyalty and friendship while sharing significant life lessons prevalent for all ages. You may step away from Wonder the Musical seeing a brighter world too.

American Repertory Theater continues its world premiere of Wonder the Musical recently extended through Sunday, February 15 live and in person at Loeb Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  Click here for more information and for tickets.